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Lactobacillus Reuteri

Also known as: ATCC PTA 6475, ATCC 55730, DSM 17938, NCIMB 30242, Limosilactobacillus reuteri

Overview

Lactobacillus reuteri is a species of probiotic bacteria. It may provide some benefits for cholesterol levels, reducing H. pylori levels (the pathogenic bacterium which contributes to ulcers), female urinary tract and vaginal health, and infant gastrointestinal health.

Benefits

One of the ways Lactobacillus reuteri may work involves a kind of T cell called a Treg cell (a T cell that down-REGulates the immune system in part by producing a cytokine called IL-10). Lactobacillus reuteri increases the amount of Treg cells in the body, which suppresses the actions of another kind of T cell called a Th17 cell (which secretes IL-17). Preserving or reversing this process (either by increasing IL-10 or by blocking IL-17) appears to provide therapeutic benefits. Lactobacillus reuteri increases the number of Treg cells in the intestines, which can then be absorbed back into the blood to benefit the rest of the body.

How it works

Lactobacillus reuteri is linked to several health benefits, including improvements in cholesterol levels, support for female urinary tract and vaginal health, and benefits for infant gastrointestinal health. It has also been associated with improvements in testosterone and oxytocin levels, skin quality, hair quality, bone mass, and weight management.

Side effects

Research doses of Lactobacillus reuteri are in the range of 1x10^9 to 1x10^11 (one billion to one hundred billion) colony-forming units (CFU) taken over the course of a day. Both single doses and multiple split doses per day have been found to be effective, though further research is needed to determine whether one is more effective than the other. At least one study suggests that supplementing Lactobacillus reuteri every other day is just as effective as daily dosing. Lactobacillus reuteri can be taken with food. Don’t take Lactobacillus reuteri with a hot beverage to allow for the survival of the bacteria. Once supplementation is stopped, intestinal colonization will start to revert to normal. Further research is needed to establish the exact time frame, but it has been observed to occur between half a week to one month after supplementation is stopped.

Dosage

Lactobacillus reuteri is generally considered safe for most people. However, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for those with underlying health conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.